Police report the breakup of theft ring

LIBERTY -- Police were expected to announce today the breakup of a major crime ring that included the theft of home construction lumber. Authorities said the announcement will cap a seven-month investigation by Liberty, Warren city and Warren Township police and the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Lt. Don Bishop of Warren Township police said 52 counts have been filed ranging from receiving stolen property to insurance fraud. He pointed out that all the charges are felonies. Ten people have been identified as being part of the main ring, and more will be identified. Bishop explained that more than $150,000 worth of stolen goods has been recovered. The loot includes a truck trailer, trucks, electronic equipment, microwave ovens, a Jeep, power tools, riding lawn mowers and guns. In one case, the lieutenant said, a trailer of lumber for the construction of a house was driven off and used to build part of a pole barn in Liberty. Bishop said there are two ringleaders. One of them has pleaded guilty to his involvement and testified before a Trumbull County grand jury. He said the second ringleader is expected to admit his involvement and testify against the others. Word of the ring got out earlier this week, when Liberty police arrested Mark T. Stancorb, 21, of Wilson Avenue, Liberty. Stancorb was arrested after his indictment on three counts of receiving stolen property and one count each of tampering with evidence, theft, breaking and entering and engaging in a pattern of criminal activities. yovich@vindy.com